The rhythm-dance phenomenon Audition Next Level officially hit the international sporting stage this past December 2025, making its debut as a demonstration event at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games).
While the main esports medal events focused on tactical shooters and MOBAs, Audition brought a unique “performance-based” energy to the competition, proving that the legendary dance battle still has a massive, competitive heartbeat across the region.
The Road to Bangkok
The inclusion of Audition was the result of a landmark collaboration between the Thailand eSports Federation (TESF), the Vietnam Esports and Entertainment Association (VIRESA), and publishers like PlayPark and VTC Intecom.
As a demonstration sport, the matches were used to showcase the game’s viability for future official medal status. Although the medals won do not count toward the overall national tally, the prestige was undeniable as the best dancers from the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam faced off at Chulalongkorn University.
Tournament Results: The Dominance of Vietnam and Thailand
The competition featured Men’s Individual, Women’s Individual, and Mixed Team categories. The results highlighted the intense rivalry between the region’s rhythm game powerhouses.
| Category | Gold | Silver | Bronze |
| Mixed Team | Vietnam | Thailand | Philippines |
| Men’s Individual | Thailand | Vietnam | Vietnam |
| Women’s Individual | Vietnam | Vietnam | Thailand |
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Team Philippines secured a hard-fought Bronze Medal in the Mixed Team category, led by the duo of Rodee Mae Maksakit and Dennis Matawaran, who managed to overcome a strong Thai squad to reach the podium.
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Vietnam proved to be the “Final Boss” of the event, sweeping the Gold in the Mixed Team and Women’s Individual categories.
A Milestone for “Non-Traditional” Esports
The success of Audition at the 33rd SEA Games marks a shift in the definition of competitive gaming. By moving away from combat-centric titles, the event highlighted the skill involved in rhythm, timing, and high-speed mechanical precision.
With the conclusion of the 2025 demonstration, the Asian Electronic Sports Federation (AESF) will evaluate the viewership and participation data. If the “Audition fever” remains high, there is a strong possibility we will see it return as a Full Medal Event in future iterations of the SEA Games.